Can the Elegant "WAKOUWA" Really Be Called a Low-Tech Sneaker with an Internal Wingtip Like a Leather Shoe?

After three years of concept development and twelve prototypes, the sneaker "WAKOUWA" was completed, drawing design inspiration from military-issued deck sneakers supplied to the US NAVY. We asked Jun Nobuoka from 35summers about the story behind the creation of this meticulously fitted sneaker by ANATOMICA and whether the product, claiming to be a low-tech sports brand, truly embodies that ethos.

A Sneaker Born from a Casual Conversation Between 2 Masters

"What’s Kinji’s favorite sneaker?"
 
"I think the most beautiful one is that deck shoe!"
 
This casual exchange between Pierre Fournier of "ANATOMICA" and Kinji Teramoto of 35summers sparked the creation of “Wakouwa.” Their shared vision ignited the production of a completely new low-tech sports shoe, but it wasn't an easy path. Nobuoka reflects on the production process at that time.

"The asymmetric line of the instep, the shape that follows the foot's natural arc from the big toe to the little toe, and the raised arch support in the arch... the last (wooden mold) was modified no less than 8 times. It took a full 30 months from the initial discussion to completion.
 
"Pierre himself is so detail-oriented that he calls himself a 'Devil of Detail,' repeating fine adjustments. Kinji, unable to bear watching, ultimately took Pierre to the factory for direct communication! (laughs)"